September marks the start of meteorological autumn, and despite saying goodbye to those long summer days, there’s still lots to do across East Sussex. Activities include art gallery yoga and a china painting workshop, plus bonfire processions, art and craft fairs, and a walking festival. So, get out and about this September and see what’s happening near you.
Yoga in the Gallery, Towner Eastbourne, Sunday 1 September, 9.15am to 10.15am, and Thursday 5 September, 6.30pm to 7.30pm
This 60-minute flow session is suitable for all levels and which is designed to calm, inspire, and uplift.
The classes offer a unique opportunity to improve your practice in the tranquil surroundings of the Towner’s exhibitions. Classes take place regularly on Sundays and Thursdays throughout the year.
Into the Trees, Pippingford, Friday 6 to Sunday 8 September
Into the Trees offers two days of family friendly activities on Saturday and Sunday. You can connect with nature while relaxing and exploring the beautiful natural surroundings. Plus there’s family camping if desired on Friday and Saturday nights.
Activities range from tree climbing, glass blowing, hot tubs and yoga, to campfire sessions, archery, storytelling, meditation and much more!
Bluebell Railway Diesel Gala, Sheffield Park, Friday 6 to Sunday 8 September
The Bluebell Railway once again will play host to a three-day Diesel Gala weekend.
With intensive running, double heading and unique formations throughout the weekend as well as some very special guests, it’s an event you won’t want to miss out on in September!
Sussex Bonfire Processions
Sussex Bonfire Societies were formed to commemorate the Protestant martyrs who were burnt at the stake in Lewes and in other Sussex towns during the Catholic Reformation of Queen Mary I from 1553 to 1558.
Nowadays, burning crosses are held at the front of many of the village and town processions to commemorate the local martyrs. The societies collect money for local charities during their processions.
The processions run from September to November starting with Uckfield on 7 September, Crowborough on 14th and Mayfield on 21st.
In October and November, more processions take place across East Sussex including in Rotherfield, Eastbourne, Battle, Rye, Northiam, Hastings and, perhaps most famously of all, Lewes.
Out Front, Hastings Contemporary, 7 to 8 September 2024
For one weekend only, Out Front will takeover the gallery’s Studio, showcasing the work of over 30 local artists who all work or volunteer at the gallery.
Enjoy a diverse collection of paintings, sculpture, printmaking and photography, celebrating the creativity the gallery’s invigilators, welcome assistants and front of house team. Out Front is part of Coastal Currents 2024, an annual arts festival across the 1066 region, featuring open studios, events, exhibitions and performances.
Plus admission to the gallery will be free for everyone all weekend! Enjoy three exhibitions – Elias Sime, Quentin Blake and Out Front – before they close for the end of the summer season.
Eastbourne Walking Festival, Eastbourne, 7 to 15 September
This walking festival is a ten-day celebration of the great outdoors.
The event acts as a springboard to promoting the health and wellbeing benefits of discovering walking as a way of life. There is something for everyone regardless of your age or mobility. Discover the incredible trails, paths, and stories of the Victorian town nestled right at the gateway to the South Downs National Park.
Rye Arts Festival, Rye, 13 to 29 September
The 53rd annual Rye Arts Festival returns this September.
The Festival offers a full range of artistic events with world class performers from around the globe, as well as local acts. Enjoy comedy, music, author talks, drama, workshops and more!
Wildlife and Country Fair, Kent and East Sussex Railway, 14 and 15 September
Visit the Wildlife and Country Fair at Tenterden and Bodiam stations.
There will be lots of stalls and nature exhibits at both stations. Trains will be running all weekend with music at the stations. Come along and join the fun!
Jewellery Fair, Towner Eastbourne, Saturday 14 to Sunday 15 September
Towner fairs are back, this time celebrating the art of contemporary jewellery-making across a variety of styles and materials.
Pop along and explore a showcase of fantastic independent jewellery brought to you by local artists.
Painted China Workshop, Rye Harbour, 29 September
Join Sussex-based artist Elaine Baker at this workshop to learn the technique of using a pen and ink to create your own nature inspired design on either one mug and a coaster or create a set of 4 coasters.
All items will be kiln fired after the workshop to create a permanent design and will then be available to collect from the Discovery Centre a week later (postage will not be possible). All materials, kiln firing and final products are included in the cost of the workshop.
If you need more ideas about places to visit or things to do, read our What’s On articles from July and August. We’ve also got some great tips about things to do with little people, many of which you can do all year round, in our Summer holiday saviours! article.
Image – © Visit Eastbourne
